MAYbe The Perfect Time to Visit Memphis?

Have you ever thought about visiting the birthplace of Rock ‘n Roll? Music is king in Memphis, so there is always an impressive and exciting array of music events hosted in the city throughout the year. BBQ is rumored to be equally as important to Memphians. It’s not a wonder that Memphis is one of Stay Alfred’s favorite cities! This year, we’re particularly excited for our guests to enjoy the festivities of theMemphis in May Festival.

May 2016 will mark the 40th anniversary of the legendary month-long Memphis in May events. Throughout the month of May (starting on the weekend of April 29th) Memphis will feature a different event that embodies the unique culture of the city. This year, Memphis in May will be comprised of the Beale Street Music Festival (April 29-May 1), the International Salute to Canada (May 2-9), World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest (May 12-14), and the Great American River Run on May 28th.

This year, the Beale Street Music Festival has some undeniably exciting headliners that represent numerous music genres. Beck, Meghan Trainor, Paul Simon, Weezer, Zedd, Train, Jason Derulo, and Modest Mouse are just some of the main performers. Alongside these Grammy-winning or chart-topping stars, other more indie or local artists will take the stage, as well. Prepare for Beale Street to close down! For more information on who is performing and when, visit this page.

Every year, Memphis in May chooses a country to “salute” for international week. This year, it’s our neighbor to the North. The International Salute to Canada will feature shopping, theatrical performances, educational presentations, art shows, and more. Check out “Traces”, a critically-acclaimed Canadian contemporary circus show that has been presented in over 25 different countries. Traces will feature acrobatics (including skateboarding and basketball) paired with a compelling story about an impending disaster. If you’re a history buff, check out the “Passage to Freedom: Secrets of the Underground Railroad” exhibit at the National Civil Rights Museum.

BBQ is undoubtedly the official food of Memphis. It’s no surprise that The World Championship BBQ Cooking Contest is part of Memphis in May. Some of the best BBQ chefs in the world will be duking it out and winning awards based on the tastiness and quality of their pork ribs, shoulders, or whole hogs. Vendors will be standing by to offer you signature Memphis BBQ and beer. It’s a big deal!

Memphis in May will be wrapping up with the Great American River Run on May 28th. This half marathon run will allow you to work off all that beer and BBQ that you more than likely have indulged in during your stay. Some of the proceeds for this event will benefit The Wounded Warrior Project.

Looking to stay within walking distance or close proximity to where all the action is? Stay Alfred hosts numerous downtown Memphis vacation rentals with guaranteed convenient access to the excitement of Beale Street. Memphis in May MAY just be the perfect excuse to plan a trip to this incredible Southern destination. With more space and privacy than hotel rooms, Stay Alfred’s vacation rentals are where to stay in Memphis!